Holy Terror (band)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1985 |
| Founder | Kurt Kilfelt |
| Defunct | 1989 |
| Headquarters | North Hills, California , United States |
| Products | Thrash metal and speed metal music |
Holy Terror was a thrash and speed metal ensemble originating from North Hills, California, active between 1985 and 1989. The band cultivated a dedicated underground following during the late 1980s metal surge, noted for their intense musical style, socially aware lyrics, and influential presence within the metal scene.
History
In 1985, guitarist Kurt Kilfelt (also known as Kurt Colfelt) established the band after departing from Agent Steel. He assembled former Dark Angel drummer Jack Schwarz, bassist Floyd Flanary, guitarist Mike Alvord, and subsequently added vocalist Keith Deen to complete the lineup.
Their independently produced four-song demo attracted attention from record labels, resulting in a deal with the UK-based Music for Nations under the Under One Flag label. Schwarz is said to have finalized this agreement without the full approval of the band members and exited shortly thereafter, with Joe Mitchell stepping in as his replacement.
Holy Terror's first album, Terror and Submission, was released in 1987. It was lauded by critics as a formidable thrash metal act that skillfully merged meaningful lyrics with aggressive melodies—achieving a balance between rapid tempos and compositional coherence.
Their sophomore and last studio album, Mind Wars (1988), was recorded within a brief 17-day period and earned praise for its raw yet melodic vigor that continues to resonate decades on.
The band embarked on tours across Europe and North America alongside groups such as D.R.I., Exodus, and Kreator. Nevertheless, struggles with substance abuse, management complications during their second European tour, and internal disputes culminated in their dissolution in 1989.
Final line-up
- Aaron Redbird – vocals
- Kurt Kilfelt – guitar
- Matt Fox – guitar
- Jeff Matz – bass
- Joe Mitchell – drums
Former members
- Keith Deen – vocals (d.2012)
- Mike Alvord – guitar
- Floyd Flanary – bass
- Jack Schwarz – drums
Studio albums
- Terror and Submission (1987, Music for Nations)
- Mind Wars (1988, Music for Nations)
Compilations & box sets
- El Revengo (2006, Blackend Records) – collection of demos, rare recordings, and live performances
- Total Terror (2017, Dissonance Productions) – extensive 5-CD set featuring complete discography plus a live DVD
Legacy
Though initially underrated, Holy Terror has since achieved cult status within thrash metal communities. Fans and critics alike emphasize the intricate musicianship on Mind Wars and highlight Keith Deen's powerful vocal delivery.
One reviewer characterized ‘’Terror and Submission’’ as: > “a punishing thrash metal unit … Holy Terror is a stunning thrash metal unit that cranked out an absolute must listen for fans of the genre.”
External links
- Complete discography on Discogs
- Holy Terror page on German Wikipedia